CARPHA underscores importance of insecticide resistance testing as Chikungunya resurges

THE Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) is reminding its Member States (CMS) about the importance of the Integrated Vector Management (IVM) approach in dealing with the Chikungunya Virus (CHIK V) and other arboviral diseases such as Dengue and Zika.

CHIK V is spread through the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito, a CARPHA release states.

The cornerstone of prevention and control against these mosquitoes remains source reduction. However, an IVM approach is needed especially during outbreaks where chemical agents (spraying and fogging) are utilised to target adult mosquitoes to decrease the likelihood of spreading these diseases.

A core principle of IVM is Insecticide Resistance Testing (IRT) studies. With the acquisition and commissioning of CARPHA’s new Mobile Insectary Facility in October 2025, CARPHA said it is now capable of providing IRT (including molecular testing) to CMS. Since the start of operations, CARPHA has already completed testing for two (2) CMS using WHO approved methodologies. Additionally, the Agency said it is currently testing samples from four CMS with the intent of bringing on two additional CMS in 2026.

For CMS, there are several benefits of conducting IRT. These test results allow vector control personnel to identify the appropriate chemical agents that will have the desired effect on the mosquito populations. It therefore guides the appropriate selection, procurement, and utilisation of the insecticides. Without these tests it would be difficult to state with certainty if use of these chemicals is beneficial to mosquito control programmes.

Dr. Lisa Indar, Executive Director, shared how the Agency continues to provide support to CMS stating that, “CARPHA has conducted a series of training workshops to build regional capacity to respond to the threat of vector-borne diseases (VBD). The latest of these were held in August, September, and December in 2025 and focused on IVM, IRT, GIS (geographic information system(s),VBD Early Warning Systems, and new methods and technologies in vector control. Dr. Indar added, “CARPHA is working with CMS to develop a Regional Integrated Early Warning System as well as to improve surveillance capacity by implementing innovative tools”.